Never Say Never

Supporters of the America Gives More Act can take inspiration from environmental and conservation groups in New Jersey which have proved the nonprofit advocacy adage: “never say never.” The groups are now promoting public support for a state constitutional amendment on the November ballot, a proposal that was declared by many to be dead when the General Assembly adjourned for the year in June.

The proposed constitutional amendment would create a permanent funding stream for preservation of open spaces, farmland, and historic structures by tapping at least $70 million in revenues generated by the state’s corporate business tax. The proposal was widely supported by state Senators, but some Assembly members had expressed concern over the cost of the measure and the need to get New Jersey’s fiscal house in order.

Although the constitutional amendment seemed dead in June, the coalition of environmental and conservation groups did not give up. They continued to promote the measure despite the apparent lack of an opportunity for the Legislature to place the proposal on the ballot. Yet, in a rare August session, and on the last possible day for a vote, the Assembly passed the amendment with enough votes to ensure that the question would be on the ballot this November.

Those expressing conventional wisdom talked about “next year.” Dedicated advocates continued to advocate for immediate action, however, and prevailed.